Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship Grant

The Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship, initiated by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry. This 12-18 month program connects Fellows with experienced board members to enhance their professional skills. Participants gain access to board resources, attend meetings, and receive support for conferences, all valued at approximately $3,000 to $3,500. Ideal for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, this Fellowship fosters growth and leadership in nonprofit governance.

United States Institute for Theatre Technology
Today it has grown to include members at all levels of their careers and has embraced the new technologies being used in entertainment. USITT is now the leader in life-long learning opportunities for the entertainment design and technology industry.
In 2012, USITT’s Secretary, Sherry Wagner-Henry, conceived and launched the USITT Board Mentorship Program. With feedback from former participants, and renamed in her honor, the program has refocused to become a flexible, 12-18-month long Fellowship with particular emphasis on finding the future leaders of USITT and investing in their growth. This opportunity serves as a bridge to connect emerging professionals with current leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry, as well as an opportunity to learn new skills that will help the Fellow develop valuable expertise on their journey to nonprofit leadership. This opportunity is best suited for members with 2-5 years of professional experience but could be a valuable addition to graduate level study for the right individual. This Fellowship will provide an open door to the Executive Director and board members of USITT, as well as, positions on Committees and a greater understanding of nonprofit governance structures.
The program includes:

• Access to board information and privileges (Basecamp, board documents of USITT)
• Participation in electronic board meetings and two face‐to‐face board meetings
• Travel and accommodations to the Annual Conference & Stage Expo, March 2026, in Long Beach, CA
• Travel and accommodations to the Annual Retreat (August 2026)
• Travel and accommodations to the Annual Conference & Stage Expo, March 2027, in Baltimore, MD
• Total estimated value of board mentorship package: $3,000‐$3,500.

Eligibility

Applicants must be a member in good standing of USITT
Applicants must demonstrate recent/current service to USITT, such as participation in conferences, Student Chapters, Regional Sections, Committees, Commissions, other USITT mentorship programs, etc.
You must be a member of this organization to apply for this award - become a member.